Stacey Dash: “The Oscars Air During Black History Month So Be Thankful”

Known for her role in the 90’s film, Clueless, Stacey Dash has recently been under constant backlash regarding her recent comments regarding the lack of diversity in the 2016 Oscars.

Following her remarks about the Oscars protest, Dash also made remarks denouncing the need for BET, a television network that caters to the African-American community as well as putting an end to Black History month. The 49-year-old was addressing the current Oscar backlash from celebrities like Jada Pinkett Smith and Lupita Nyong’o regarding the lack of diversity among the nominees this year.

“We have to make up our minds. Either we want to have segregation or integration and if we don’t want segregation, then we need to get rid of channels like BET and the BET Awards and the Image Awards where you’re only awarded if you’re black,” she said during a broadcast of Fox & Friends. “If it were the other way around, we would be up in arms. It’s a double standard.”

Dash’s opinion on the Oscars has upset a lot of people and even amassed a response from BET themselves. In an Instagram post created by BET, the network was expedient in pointing out Dash’s lack of hesitation to accept a role in one of their hit television series before becoming a commentator on the Fox network.

Stacey responded to BET on her blog claiming BET perpetuates racism.

“BET lies to American black people by telling them that the rest of America is racist,”

After her internet quarrel with BET, Stacey Dash made a new remark regarding the Oscars. While leaving Fox studios, Dash was approached by several media outlets to garner another response.

“Why are Black people complaining about the Oscars? They have received their share of awards throughout the years. There is no reason to be disgruntled because they do not get an award every year. Be happy that you are included in the Academy nominations. More importantly, be thankful that the Oscars airs during Black history month. Either way, Black people are included in the Oscars,” said Dash to reporters.

She also claimed BET operates on a double standard.

“My problem goes back to the notion that every area of life needs to break down exactly according to demographic ratios except in those areas in which black people have decided they want to have their own space,” she added. “I don’t have a problem with black people having their own space. I have a problem with the folks at BET absolutely freaking out when other institutions don’t match up to what they think is best.”

With all of the attention circulating the upcoming award show, some wonder if talking about the lack of Black inclusion is going to discourage people from watching the awards or maintain its relevance.